Tough times require searching for things that we can change and making them better. But so often problems are solved with 'band-aids' and not root cause solutions. This approach is getting too expensive and at best only helps companies tread water. To combat these issues and adopt a fresh approach, teams can use the methods and tools of Root Cause Problem Solving to first view problems as opportunities for improvement, identify root causes and implement solutions to prevent recurrence. Benefits include improved quality and customer satisfaction, reduced operation costs, and greater employee knowledge of work processes.

In today's economic environment, patents have become an increasingly important asset for both individuals and corporations. More and more, individuals and corporations, including those in the automotive and aerospace industries, are recognizing that revenue can be generated from their patent rights, whether those rights consist of a single patent, a family of patents or an entire portfolio. Indeed, some companies do not make or sell products; their entire revenue is derived from the licensing of their patents. Suffice it to say, licensing revenue has become a significant source of value in the global intellectual property economy.